Jeni Smith

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT JENI SMITH

Hi, I’m Jeni I help people and organisations connect in ways that leads to impact.I’ve spent my career immersed in networking, from leading organisations and building communities across the UK, to founding NetKno and NetworkWhere.com.Alongside this, I’m currently undertaking a PhD at Durham University Business School where I’m researching how networking can help bridge the gap between academia and industry.Using design science methodologies, I’ve developed a practical framework to support more effective collaboration between sectors.What I doI combine real-world experience with academic research to help individuals and organisations build stronger networks that align with their objectives, develop effective collaboration interventions, and support innovation through better-connected people and partnerships.This includes: Networking training, workshops, coaching & consultancy Collaboration and partnership strategy Facilitated sessions to build trust, alignment and shared direction Supporting knowledge exchange between research and practiceThis is underpinned by the application of my research-led framework within collaborative projects, helping partners connect, build trust, and work more effectively together.Who I work with• Individuals looking to build confidence and clarity in their networking• Business support providers and accelerator programmes• Organisations wanting to support staff professional development• Companies looking to develop more strategic approach to networking• Universities, businesses and public sector teams working in partnershipRecognition Future 100 Young Entrepreneurs (UK) Great British Entrepreneur Awards Finalist (2021 & 2022) 3MT Winner, Durham University (2024) The Telegraph – 100 Women to WatchIf you want to build your network, strengthen your relationships, or make collaboration really work in practice… Let’s have a chat (I’m dead canny, honest.)